Eye Diseases
At Eye C Optometry we check for the following eye diseases and conditions during our comprehensive eye examinations.
Red Eye
At Eye C Optometry we diagnose and manage red eye conditions. If you have a red, irritated or painful eye please call us without delay. In the case of outside hours emergencies please call 62 140 429 and leave a message and we will return your call.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a progressive disease in which the optic nerve at the back of the eye is damaged. It is sometimes caused by too much pressure inside the eye. Glaucoma is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight’ as it often causes no symptoms until the later stages of the disease. For this reason it is important to have an eye checkup every two years, especially once you are over the age of 40.
We check for glaucoma by viewing the optic nerve at the back of the eye, imaging the nerve using retinal photography and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and measuring the eye’s intraocular pressure. If there are any concerns we may also perform a visual field test to check the side vision, which can be lost as glaucoma progresses.
If we suspect that you are developing glaucoma we will refer you to a specialist (ophthalmologist) for further assessment and treatment.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes causes damage to the fine blood vessels at the back of the eye. Damage can cause the blood vessels to leak fluid and blood into the retina. The subsequent retinal damage can cause vision loss and even blindness. We check for diabetic retinopathy by dilating the pupils of the eyes and examining the retina for any signs of damage. If you have diabetes we recommend having your eyes tested once a year.
Cataracts
Cataracts are an opacity or clouding of the crystalline lens which is found inside the eye behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye) and pupil.
Cataracts usually develop slowly, and are most commonly caused by ageing. Eventually it becomes more difficult to see through the lens, causing symptoms like difficulty reading fine print even with your glasses.
Cataracts are very common, with most people having some degree of cataract by the time they reach their 60s or 70s. Cataracts are treated by surgical removal by an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon). We can examine your eyes for cataract and refer you to a specialist when treatment is required.
Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is a condition affecting the central area of the retinal at the back of the eye, leading to blur, distortion and loss of central vision.
In the early stage waste material accumulates under the retina. At this stage vision may be unaffected. In the later stages retinal cells are lost and/or new blood vessels appear and leak fluid, damaging the macular area. Vision loss in the later stages can be severe.
ARMD is the leading cause of severe vision loss and legal blindness in people aged over 40 years in Australia. Risks include advancing age, a family history of the disease, smoking and poor diet. Eating a healthy diet which includes lots of fruit, vegetables and oily fish is protective against the disease.
At Eye C Optometry we use advanced imaging that can pick up ARMD even in its very early stages. Early detection is important as there are treatments available which can prevent irreversible blindness (injections for wet ARMD).
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a disease of the eyelids in which the oil glands of the eyelid and eye lid margins become inflamed. Symptoms include red eyelids that can look crusty or greasy, and sometimes a feeling of dryness, itchy eyes, or irritation.
At Eye C Optometry we treat blepharitis by prescribing regular lid cleansing regimes and treating the dry eye and inflammation in conjunction with your GP.
